Tourism / Turyzm

Volume 31 Issue 1 Article 11

June 2021

TOWS analysis for sustainable ecotourism development and state support during the pandemic: The Aral Sea region of

Olimjon Saidmamatov State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics

Umidjon Matyakubov Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics

Elbek Khodjaniyazov Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics

Jonathon Day Purdue University, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Ergash Ibadullaev Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics

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Recommended Citation Saidmamatov, Olimjon; Matyakubov, Umidjon; Khodjaniyazov, Elbek; Day, Jonathon; Ibadullaev, Ergash; Chuponov, Sanat; Bekjanov, Dilmurad; Matniyozov, Murodjon; and Matyusupov, Bunyod (2021) "TOWS analysis for sustainable ecotourism development and state support during the pandemic: The Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan," Tourism / Turyzm: Vol. 31 : Iss. 1 , Article 11. DOI: 10.18778/0867-5856.31.1.16 Available at: https://digijournals.uni.lodz.pl/turyzm/vol31/iss1/11

This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Social Sciences Journals at University of Lodz Research Online. It has been accepted for inclusion in Tourism / Turyzm by an authorized editor of University of Lodz Research Online. For more information, please contact [email protected]. TOWS analysis for sustainable ecotourism development and state support during the pandemic: The Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan

Authors Olimjon Saidmamatov, Umidjon Matyakubov, Elbek Khodjaniyazov, Jonathon Day, Ergash Ibadullaev, Sanat Chuponov, Dilmurad Bekjanov, Murodjon Matniyozov, and Bunyod Matyusupov

This article is available in Tourism / Turyzm: https://digijournals.uni.lodz.pl/turyzm/vol31/iss1/11 DOI: https://doi.org/10.18778/0867-5856.31.1.16 e-ISSN 2080-6922, ISSN 0867-5856

Turyzm/Tourism 2021, 31/1

TOWS analysis for sustainable ecotourism development and state support during the pandemic: The Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan

Olimjon Saidmamatovᵃ , Umidjon Matyakubovᵇ , Elbek Khodjaniyazovc , Jonathon Dayᵈ , Ergash Ibadullaevᵉ , Sanat Chuponovf , Dilmurad Bekjanovᵍ , Murodjon Matniyozovh , Bunyod Matyusupovi

ᵃ Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0046-5521; e-mail: [email protected] b Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4888-3044; e-mail: [email protected] c Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2937-3148; e-mail: [email protected] d Purdue University, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8207-9650; e-mail: [email protected] ᵉ Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7059-2510; e-mail: [email protected] f Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7388-9224; e-mail: [email protected] g Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8851-2240; e-mail: [email protected] h Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6233-2383; e-mail: [email protected] i Urgench State University, Faculty of Tourism and Economics; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8094-2126; e-mail: [email protected]

ABSTRACT ARTICLE INFORMATION DETAILS Evaluating the current ecotourism situation in the Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan and Received: offering strategies for its sustainable development are the main objectives of the study. 12 April 2020 The threats, opportunities, weaknesses and strengths (TOWS) analysis was applied to Accepted: identify the required management strategies. The article aims to review the literature 11 May 2021 on ecotourism promotion in the Aral Sea region. Based on TOWS, the results show that Published: state support during the pandemic should be strategically coordinated to secure the 18 June 2021 sustainability of the ecotourism industry in Uzbekistan.

KEYWORDS ecotourism, sustainable development, pandemic, Aral Sea region, Uzbekistan, explo- ratory study

1. Introduction export earnings generated by tourism in Uzbekistan have grown to 1.7 trillion USD (UNWTO, 2019). This The number of worldwide tourists has reached 1.5 bil- was believed to increase further in future years but lion which makes the sector a truly global force for eco- the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the situation nomic growth and development, driving the creation dramatically and now tourism is said to have been af- of more and better jobs and serving as a catalyst for fected more than other sectors. Since January 2020, vari- innovation and entrepreneurship (UNWTO, 2020) while ous restrictions have been imposed on visits to tourism

How to cite (APA style): Saidmamatov, O., Matyakubov, U., Khodjaniyazov, E., Day, J., Ibadullaev, E., Chuponov, S., Bekjanov, D., Matniyozov, M., Matyusupov, B. (2021). TOWS analysis for sustainable ecotourism development and state support during the pandemic: The Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan. Turyzm/ Tourism, 31 (1), 47–56. https://doi.org/10.18778/0867-5856.31.1.16 48 Turyzm/Tourism 2021, 31/1 destinations. According to the second WTO report dated of a stakeholder engagement map, as well as a clus- 28 April, 100% of worldwide destinations have had ter approach. The research hypothesis is that the de- pandemic related travel restrictions (UNWTO, 2020). velopment of ecotourism in remote parts of Uzbekistan The spread of the coronavirus pandemic has had (i.e., Aral Sea region) is highly correlated with the state a profound negative impact on the sustainable devel- support provided during the COVID-19 pandemic. opment of tourism, as well as other sectors of economies. According to the data, the number of foreign tourists globally in January–August 2020 reduced by 700 million compared to the same period in 2019. Losses from the 2. Literature review export of tourist services amounted to 730 billion USD. Damage caused by the pandemic is eight times greater Tourism contributes to strengthening foreign exchange on tourism than the damage caused by the global rates, driving regional development, directly supporting financial and economic crisis in 2009 (UNWTO, 2020). several types of jobs and businesses and develops many Globally, many emerging economies rely largely on local communities. The tourism sector generates 4.4% tourist spending (Asadpourian, Rahimian, Gholamrezai, of GDP and 21.5% of service exports in OECD countries. 2020) which accounts for a significant contribution to These shares are much higher for several OECD count- the GDP of those countries (Azam, Alam, Hafeez, 2018). ries. For example, tourism in Spain contributes 11.8% Notably, Uzbekistan is making rapid reforms in the of GDP while travel represents 52.3% of total service tourism sector by cancelling visa requirements, and exports, in Mexico these figures are 8.7% and 78.3%, establishing direct flights with major European cities. It in Iceland 8.6% and 47.7%, in Portugal 8.0% and 51.1%, is known that the benefits of an activity cannot guarantee and in France 7.4% and 22.2% (UNWTO, 2020). its sustainability and concerns are raised about what the Ecotourism is one of the most important activities that economy wants to generate in return. In other words, can conserve natural and cultural resources and bring what is going to happen to the host community and economic benefits to both local people and national environment as tourist revenue increases? government at the same time. A successful plan for In recent years, the Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan has ecotourism is a function of developing precise goals emerged as an attractive new destination for incoming and criteria (Demir, Esbah, Akgun, 2016). It is a fact foreign and domestic tourists. The development of that ecotourism, if developed sustainably, can have tourism in the Aral Sea region contributes to employment a less negative environmental impact, reduce adverse and income opportunities for local people while the externalities, increase cultural and environmental generated revenue can be further used to update the in- integrity, make resource management more effective, frastructure in the territory (Saidmamatow, Rudenko, and bring extra financial wellbeing (UNEP, 2013). Pfister, Koziel, 2020). From a practical point of view, as Ecotourism is about integrating conservation, com- of January 1, 2021, over 1500 tour operators are registered munities and sustainable development. It means in Uzbekistan but only 4% of them are registered in the that ecotourism activities should be in line with key Khorezm region and 2% in Karakalpakstan. This means principles: to minimize negative environmental that most of the incoming investment via tourism is impacts; to build environmental and cultural awareness staying in the capital city of and and respect; to provide positive engagement for the second-largest city leading to an imbalance in both visitors and hosts; to provide direct economic regional economic growth as well as poor destination interests for conservation; grant financial benefits and management, marketing and the logistics of tourism in empowerment for local people; and establish sensitivity general in the Aral Sea region (UzbekTourism, 2020). to host countries’ environmental and social climate The research gap that motivated the authors to write (Das, Chatterjee, 2015; Higham, 2007; Holden, 2007). is that there are very few academic articles available Ecotourism can be explained as “environmentally revealing the situation of ecotourism development, engaged travel to comparatively undisturbed areas to challenges and opportunities in Central Asia, and in enjoy and respect nature that supports conservation the Aral Sea region which is an ecological catastrophe. with low negative visitor impacts while offering active The stakeholder engagement map and TOWS analysis socio-economic wellbeing for local people” (Jalani, generate strategies to support local entrepreneurs to 2012, p. 48). Ecotourism is a new type of tourism that take the lead in the tourism market of Uzbekistan. The is a consumable resource, has an educational and research question is to assess the current situation of adventurous character, and focuses on undeveloped ecotourism development in the Aral Sea region and and sparsely visited natural, cultural and historical sites the role of state support is elaborated to strengthen the (Lenao, Basupi, 2016; Liu, Li, 2013; Mayaka, Prasad, 2012). economic conditions of tourism businesses during Socio-economic and environmental factors were the pandemic. The research methodology includes taken into account for the TOWS analysis. In the TOWS TOWS analysis (matrix), leading to the development context, opportunity means the potential present to Articles 49 carry out an activity to increase efficiency or improve draw global attention to the acute ecological problems the quality of management for any kind of organization of the Aral Sea catastrophe. Overcoming the negative (Hong, Chan, 2010). Although TOWS analysis is a wide- consequences of this in the Aral Sea region requires ly preferred and easy-to-use method to define positi- active international, regional and local engagement. As ve and negative issues, it is limited to qualitative evalua- a result, a special UN programme was accepted to bring tions (Demir, Esbah, Akgun, 2016). effective assistance to the local population affected by Ecotourism calls for low-impact tourism, participation the Aral Sea crisis. in decision-making and sensitive approaches to bio- In December 2019, the UN General Assembly at diversity and local cultures. It supports local con- its plenary session adopted a special resolution “Sus- servation efforts and can bring financial and physical tainable Tourism and Sustainable Development in benefits to host communities as well as providing Central Asia” that was initiated by the President of educational opportunities for travellers. An applicable Uzbekistan in Beijing at a meeting with the UN Secretary- ecotourism destination should include both original General, Antonio Guterres, as part of the international nature and cultural heritage (Dowling, Fennel, 2003; forum “One Belt, One Road” (UzDaily, 2019). The UN Rahemtulla, Wellstead, 2001; Rein, 2005; Weaver, General Assembly Resolution emphasizes the essence of Oppermann, 2000; Yılmaz, 2005). the efforts of Central Asian countries to disseminate the Evaluating the ecotourism development prospects 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, numerous for the Aral Sea region can open up ecotourism which international events for the further development of would allow local communities to benefit from recre- tourism on the Silk Road, as well as measures taken by ational activity. If ecotourism is organised well, it is local governments in Central Asian countries to capture the best way to protect natural places and benefits both international investment and finance to the tourism natural heritage and local people. Through tourism, sector. It is noteworthy that the UN General Assem- public awareness can be raised to become environmental bly (2019) invites member states, other stakeholders respect and can stimulate the emergence of new local and the UNWTO to support the activities carried out economic activities (Salvatore, Marciano, 2019). by the countries of Central Asia to support sustainable tourism development in the region (United Nations, 2019), and in this regard: – expand cooperation in the field of tourism with the 3. Ecotourism in Uzbekistan countries of Central Asia; – provide growth in the main sectors of a consolidated Uzbekistan has great ecotourism potential. Nowadays, and comprehensive policy for sustainable tourism there are 17 natural reserves in Uzbekistan including development in Central Asia, considering the specifics Baday-Tuqay, Kizilkum, Nurota, Zarafshon, Orol Pay and current condition of economic advancement of gamber, Zomin, Charvak and Chatqal, and these reserve each country in the region; areas are mainly used as a place for the protection of – promote the development of tourism and strategies endangered species of animals and plants (Hoshimov, to attract foreign tourists to Central Asia; 2009). Besides, ecotourism destinations have increased – join forces for the enforcement and application of from 29 to 65 covering 8,144,000 hectares with a capacity innovative technologies for the modernization of the for hosting over 1074 visitors per day (Khamidov, 2016). tourism industry in Central Asia (UzDaily, 2019). Uzbekistan has developed a scientific and theoretical At the meeting of the council of the heads of the framework aimed at ensuring the sustainable de- founding states of the International Fund for Saving velopment of ecotourism and improving ecotour- the Aral Sea in Turkmenistan, the President of Uzbe- ism services on the tourism market (Berdiyorov, 2010). kistan stated that providing conditions for attract- Organizational and managerial forms and practices, de- ing foreign investment for the development and velopment trends in ecotourism in developed and implementation of environmentally clean technologies developing countries have been analysed, and recom- in the Aral Sea region, the fulfilment of the principles mendations are made for their use in Uzbekistan of the “green economy” as well as the comprehensive (Khamidov, 2017). In 2007, the State Committee of implementation of the principles of environmentally the Republic of Uzbekistan on ecology and environ- friendly energy-saving technologies, the elimination mental protection adopted the concept of ecological tour- of desertification and the continuation of ecological ism in Uzbekistan. This particular document elabora- migration, and the development of ecotourism are ted the problems of ecological and socio-economic, priority aims that should be realized (UzDaily, 2019). organizational-legal issues and goals, and the potential As a result of reforms in the field of tourism in development of ecotourism (SCRepUzEEP, 2007). Uzbekistan, the flow of foreign tourists visiting the The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Aral Sea region is growing year by year. In particular, delivered a speech at the UN General Assembly to the Republic of Karakalpakstan was visited by a total 50 Turyzm/Tourism 2021, 31/1 of 46,386 tourists: 21,399 foreign and 24,987 local, while development in the Aral Sea region. In the longer term, a total of 2,646,597 tourists visited the Khorezm region: the evaluation is one of several complex strategies to 420,828 foreign and 2,225,769 local in 2019. Local tour promote ecotourism in Uzbekistan taking into account experts consider eco-tourism for those parts of the the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Aral Sea including Moynak district, Sudochye Lake, In addition, a cluster approach and stakeholder map- Koyi Amu Darya biosphere reserve in the ping are built onto a TOWS assessment helping to devel- district, Ustyurt plain of the Kungrad district (canyon), op short-term and long-term strategies to improve the Barsakelmes salt lake (salt deposits), the open-air ship ecotourism market in remote zones of Uzbekistan while ‘cemetery’ and Eshan lakes (Uzbek Tourism, 2020). the stakeholder map assists the integration and har- monisation of the functions of local authorities to mitigate weaknesses as well as minimizing expected threats. 4. Methodology

The research methodology is based on a literature 5. Findings review on ecotourism opportunities, challenges and promotional approaches in the Aral Sea region of 5.1. TOWS analysis for ecotourism Uzbekistan. TOWS analysis is a research method mostly in Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan applied in business management as well as being applied to evaluate decision-making in sustainable In the case of the Aral Sea region, evaluating internal tourism (NOAA, 2011). The following analysis helps and external factors is essential to develop strategic plan- to diagnose the existing conditions of ecotourism ning for sustainable ecotourism management (Table 1).

Table 1. TOWS for ecotourism promotion in Aral Sea region

Threats Opportunities Climate change and poor environmental 1 1 New target markets for visitors (Allanazarov, Alimov, 2019) management 2 High migration rate from rural communities 2 Potential for desert tourism promotion (Khaytboyev, 2016) Competition burden of other new ecotour- 3 3 Open visas for over 80 countries (Lex.uz, 2020a) ism destinations in Central Asia The significance of seasonality in tourism Government programmes focusing on tourism promotion 4 4 (Bekjanov, Matyusupov, 2020) (Matyakubov, 2017) Extreme weather conditions, water salinity Existence of ecotourism development in Uzbekistan (SCRepUzEEP, 5 5 and air pollution (Rudenko, Lamers, 2010) 2007) Risk of being infected by the pandemic The main requirements of pandemic conditions are individual tours, 6 or having an impact on it (Matyakubov, 6 opportunities for keeping distance and low density (Rudenko et al., Ibadullaev, 2020) 2010). Weaknesses Strengths Absence of regional integration of tourism in Popularity of surrounding destinations: Samarkand, , , 1 Central Asia (Saidmamatov, Rudenko, Baier, 1 (Saidmamatov et al., 2020) Khodjaniyazov, 2021) Potential for the development of extreme tourism in Ustyurt and high Poor quality of tourism infrastructure and 2 2 ecotourism potential in the Lower Amu Darya biodiversity (Salaev, associated services (Alimov, 2018) Alimov, 2018) Less integration of the Aral Sea region as Potential for hunting tourism, agritourism, gastronomic tourism, 3 a tourism destination in tour packages 3 religious and recreation opportunities, archaeo-tourism, rich flora and (Kamaletdinov, 2018) fauna (Matyakubov, Defrancesco, 2018) Existence of ancient fortress (golden ring of ancient Khorezm capitals) 4 Poor level of marketing (Matyakubov, 2017) 4 and Savitsky Museum of Art in Central Asia (Yagodin, Betts, 2009) Government introduced “Uzbekistan. Safe travel GUARANTEED” Lack of qualified tour operators, tour 5 5 sanitary-epidemiologically safe tourism for tourists (Matyakubov, agencies and guides (Alimov, 2018) Ibadullayev, 2020) Insufficient legislative, government support Because of the high risk of infection during the pandemic, the choice 6 to support a cluster approach in ecotourism 6 of tourist destinations is limited (Bekjanov, 2020) destinations (Kamaletdinov, 2018)

Source: authors. Articles 51

Based on field observation and conversation with local travel agencies and guides, the following approaches can be recommended to eliminate weaknesses and minimize the threats to generating inclusive and long- term sustainable development of ecotourism in Aral Sea region: 1. Developing and promoting the ecotourism strategy in the Aral Sea region. 2. Improving roads and roadside infrastructure, hy- gienic conditions (i.e. clean drinking water) that are baselines to attracting ecotourists. 3. Forming of mutually beneficial partnerships among tour operators, hotels, local communities, academy, think tanks and tour destinations. 4. Development of programmes (i.e. public-private partnership) to attract local and foreign direct investment for the development of ecotourism infrastructure in the Aral Sea region. 5. Organization of training for guides on ecological tourism in training centres under the Departments of Tourism Development in the Republic of Ka- rakalpakstan and the Khorezm region. 6. To promote ecotourism in the Aral Sea region, new tourist routes should include destinations such as: – Lower Amu Darya State Biosphere Reserve, – Sultan Uvays Mountain, – Ustyurt Plateau, – Sudochye, – Saigachi. The main factor affecting the tourism industry as a whole is the level of competitiveness in the field of tourism. In modern conditions, it is important not only to obtain a set of high-quality tourist services (accommodation, transportation, excursions, meals, the availability of modern sanitary facilities) but also Figure 1. Small Tourist Zones in Aral Sea basin. to satisfy spiritual and emotional needs, and to gain Source: authors development experience of living in extraordinary conditions in an unfamiliar environment. both archaeological and medical tourism – Photo 1. There are several issues and problems including In addition, there are also opportunities to create the number of tourists, historical places in cities and new tourist routes using the recreational resources of towns, and issues of transport logistics. It is difficult to Akchakul, other natural reservoirs, sites with a high compete with other tourist destinations if the response concentration of minerals, etc. is expensive and takes a long time. 2. The second STZ is proposed to be located in the Berunyi district, at the village of Oltinsay, which is located near the Lower Amu Darya State Biosphere 5.2. Cluster approach Reserve (Badai Tugai), where endangered species of plants, fish, birds and animals live in natural In order to implement a cluster approach to tourism conditions – Photo 2. This zone can be aimed at the development in the Aral Sea region, it is advisable to development of ecotourism, historical and special create at least four small tourist zones (STZ) – Fig. 1. programmes for pilgrimage (ziyorat) tourism to They will be developed based on ecological situation, accommodate tourist infrastructure and accom- transportation, logistics, biodiversity and the location modation networks (Matyakubov, Ibadullaev, 2020). of the ecotourism destination (Kamaletdinov, 2018): 3. The third STZ may be located in the city of Muynak 1. So, in STZ tourists can go to Akchakul Lake, located where there are great prospects for the development on the Amu Darya coast in the Ellikkala district, of ecological and extreme tourism. New tourist which has a high potential for the development of attractions, “ship cemeteries”, where old fishing 52 Turyzm/Tourism 2021, 31/1

Photo 1. STZ Akchakul Photo 2. STZ Amudarya river Source: authors Source: authors

Photo 3. STZ Muynak Photo 4. STZ Nukus Source: authors Source: authors

vessels and steamboats have become stranded and categorize the various stakeholders by drawing – Photo 3. Travellers are expected to get acquainted further pictures of who the stakeholder groups are, with saxaul forest plantations on the floor of the Aral which interests they represent, the amount of power Sea, observe swans, flamingos, pelicans and other they possess, whether they represent inhibiting or rare birds on Sudochye Lake. Muynak also attracts supporting factors for the organization to realize its those who want to feel the fragility of nature. Extreme objectives, or the methods by which they should be tourists will be interested in visiting the Aral Sea and dealt with (Figure 2). other local disaster areas. For these purposes, it is neces- The stakeholder map demonstrates that the Uzbek sary to implement comprehensive measures to expand tourism market is regulated by the State Commit- tourism opportunities as well as various cultural and tee for Tourism Development and State Committee recreational activities (Kamaletdinov, 2018). on Ecology and Environmental protection. The new- 4. The fourth STZ, the central zone is proposed to be ly established Ministry of Innovative Development created in the city of Nukus, not far from Nukus is playing an accelerating role to solve tourism international airport and will provide travel services problems while the Ministry of Culture controls the (Kamaletdinov, 2018) – Photo 4. museums and tourism destination sites. Increasing the wellbeing and livelihood of local communities re- mains the key priority behind developing the tourism 5.3. Stakeholder mapping sector. of the Uzbek tourism sector For support structure and service providers, it is very important to cooperate jointly with the four key Stakeholder mapping is the visual representation regulatory bodies in order to realize strategic projects of a stakeholder analysis, organised according to to reform the tourism industry in a complex and key criteria. It is a process and visual tool to clarify integrated way. Articles 53

Figure 2. Key tourism industry bodies in Uzbekistan Source: authors development

6. State support during the pandemic situation, tourism entities are not working and they in Uzbekistan need the support of the government to maintain their businesses. Subsidies were introduced to the tourism sector by a state fund to support entrepreneurship The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is, first and (Table 2). foremost, a humanitarian crisis affecting lives, which In order to accelerate the recovery of tourism and has also triggered a global economic crisis. This has the formation of new development directions after the a very tangible impact on the tourism sector which stabilization of the sanitary-epidemiological situation in is critical for many people, places and businesses, the country, as well as to ensure the execution process, the with the impact particularly felt in countries, cities Presidential Decree No. PD-6002 on 28 May 2020 “On and regions where tourism is an important part of urgent measures to support tourism to reduce the the economy. The coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis has negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic” was disrupted lives and livelihoods worldwide and has passed. The presidential resolution No 4755 “Additional limited travel within and across borders. Like other measures to the development of the tourism sector in countries, the coronavirus pandemic has affected following the demands of the strengthened sanitary- Uzbekistan’s tourism destinations very badly. In epidemiological security regime” was accepted on March 2020, the first patient was recorded and the June 19, 2020. In this resolution, the main actions to government had to establish strict regulations against restart international tourism in the country are below spread of the pandemic. In this kind of harsh economic (Table 3).

Table 2. Post-pandemic relief measures for Uzbekistan

No. Period Relief measures to compensate the expenses of tourism entities on loans previously issued by 1 From 1 March to 1 June 2020 commercial banks for the construction of accommodation facilities to subsidize accommodation at 10% of the cost (hotel services), 15 USD, except for From 1 June 2020 to 31 December those bought by a compensatory charter flight allocation of incentive subsidies in 2 2021 USD, provided that they stay in the territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan for at least five days 54 Turyzm/Tourism 2021, 31/1

Table 2. (cont.)

No. Period Relief measures

for foreign tourist groups of at least 10 people, provided that they organize a tour in From the date of resumption of the Republic of Uzbekistan and spend at least five nights in their accommodation, 3 inbound tourism at the expense partial subsidization of air and rail ticket expenses of tour operators at 30% of the of the fund until December 31, 2020 ticket price

the fund will reimburse the cost of renovation, reconstruction and strengthening the material and technical base for the acquisition or upgrading of hotels, provided that 4 By 1 June 2021 the category is maintained for the next three years, 5 million soums for each room in 3-star hotels, 10 million soums for each room in 4-star hotels, 15 million soums for each room in 5-star hotels legal entities for construction, reconstruction and equipping machinery, their components and spare parts, buildings and structures for disinfection, imported into the territory of Uzbekistan are exempted from payment of customs duties 5 Until January 1, 2022 (except for customs clearance fees and value added tax) for contactless controlled equipment, as well as odourless disinfectants. Besides, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan was ordered to allocate 20 billion soums to start the execution of the measures income tax, property and land taxes and turnover tax rates on the main activities 6 July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023 of non-governmental (private) museums, art galleries and craft centres will be reduced by 50% compared to the established amount

Source: UzbekTourism (2020).

Table 3. Actions taken during the pandemic

Actions taken Description during the pandemic Uzbekistan. Safe travel Establishment of a sanitary-epidemiological situation in tourist destinations. All expenditures GUARANTEED are covered by the government Digital menu Minimizing physical contact between customers and staff Government pays 3000 USD per tourist if they become infected with COVID-19 during their Compensation stay in Uzbekistan These will be created in traditional architecture using modern building materials. They will Tourist makhallas (Tourist be leased to local dehkans (farmers) who are ready to receive tourists as part of rural and eth- neighbours) nographic tours, demonstrating the traditional way of life, crafts and cuisine of the regions support local entrepreneurs by compensating certain amount of the cost of a project that Family guest houses in rural intends to establish family guest houses in remote rural and mountainous areas if they meet places, mountains, desert certain requirements such as running the accommodation for at least five years and to setting up zones a special automated electronic programme that registers visitors coming to the accommodation. The amount of compensation should not surpass 10 mln UZS, which should be 30% of the cost

Source: Lex.uz (2020b).

Table 4. Prospects for the development of ecotourism in the Aral Sea region

Actions Funding source Entrepreneurial funds and loans from Establishment of a large tourist complex “Aral Oasis” with a closed protected area commercial banks, grants Aral Sea, Sudochye Lake, Kungrad State Forestry, new routes with maximum in- volvement of the local population living in the vicinity of the “Kazakdarya”, perma- Funds and grants from entrepreneurs nent tourist accommodation and tourist infrastructure facilities Akchakul Lake ecotourism complex Partnership with government Establishing Lower Amu Darya State Biosphere Reserve ecotourism complex Partly by the government

Source: Lex.uz (2020c). Articles 55

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